Levothyroxine
Mechanism
Provides synthetic thyroxine, which is converted to triiodothyronine and regulates metabolism, growth, and development.
Uses
- Hypothyroidism replacement therapy
- Pituitary thyrotropin suppression in selected thyroid conditions
Common effects
- Symptoms of thyroid hormone excess
- Palpitations
- Tremor
- Heat intolerance
Serious risks
- Cardiac effects from overtreatment
- Reduced bone mineral density with overreplacement
- Not indicated for weight loss
- Clinically important absorption interactions
Monitoring
- TSH
- Free thyroxine when appropriate
- Symptoms and adherence
- Changes in interacting medicines or products
Counseling
- Take consistently on an empty stomach as directed
- Separate from calcium, iron, and other binding products
- Stay with a consistent product when possible
- Report persistent symptoms of underreplacement or excess